Mark 8:27

¶ And Jesus went out, and his disciples, into the towns of Caesarea Philippi: and by the way he asked his disciples, saying unto them, Whom do men say that I am?

And {G2532} Jesus {G2424} went out {G1831}, and {G2532} his {G846} disciples {G3101}, into {G1519} the towns {G2968} of Caesarea {G2542} Philippi {G5376}: and {G2532} by {G1722} the way {G3598} he asked {G1905} his {G846} disciples {G3101}, saying {G3004} unto them {G846}, Whom {G5101} do {G3004} men {G444} say {G3004} that I {G3165} am {G1511}?

Yeshua and his talmidim went on to the towns of Caesarea Philippi. On the way, he asked his talmidim, "Who are people saying I am?"

Then Jesus and His disciples went on to the villages around Caesarea Philippi. On the way, He questioned His disciples: “Who do people say I am?”

And Jesus went forth, and his disciples, into the villages of Cæsarea Philippi: and on the way he asked his disciples, saying unto them, Who do men say that I am?

Commentary

Mark 8:27 marks a significant turning point in the Gospel of Mark. Jesus takes his disciples away from the familiar Jewish territories into a distinctly pagan region, setting the stage for a crucial revelation about his true identity and mission.

Historical and Cultural Context

Jesus and his disciples traveled to the "towns of Caesarea Philippi," a region far north of Galilee. This area was named after Philip the Tetrarch (in honor of Caesar Augustus) and was known for its prominent pagan worship, including a shrine to the Greek god Pan and a temple dedicated to Caesar. Choosing this location, away from the crowds and the religious scrutiny of Jerusalem, provided a secluded environment for a profound discussion. It was a place where worldly powers and pagan beliefs were evident, making Jesus' question about his identity even more impactful.

Key Themes and Messages

  • The Central Question of Identity: The core of this verse is Jesus' direct inquiry: "Whom do men say that I am?" This question isn't posed out of ignorance but to prompt his disciples to articulate their understanding, moving beyond popular opinion to a deeper, personal conviction. It highlights the fundamental importance of knowing who Jesus truly is.
  • A Pivotal Moment in Discipleship: This conversation serves as a critical transition in Mark's narrative. Up to this point, Jesus has demonstrated his authority through miracles and teachings. Now, the focus shifts to the disciples' comprehension of his Messiahship, which immediately precedes Peter's famous confession in Mark 8:29 and Jesus' first prediction of his suffering and resurrection.
  • Distinguishing Popular Opinion from Truth: Jesus first asks about general public perception before narrowing the question to his disciples, emphasizing the difference between hearsay and genuine revelation.

Linguistic Insights

The KJV phrasing "Whom do men say that I am?" directly translates the Greek. There isn't a complex word or phrase in this specific verse that requires deep linguistic unpacking for a general audience. The power lies in the simplicity and directness of the question itself, demanding a response regarding Jesus' person.

Related Scriptures

This pivotal moment is also recorded in the other Synoptic Gospels, highlighting its significance: Matthew 16:13 and Luke 9:18. The question itself sets the stage for the profound answer given by Peter, which is the cornerstone of understanding Christ's identity and mission (Mark 8:29).

Practical Application

For believers today, Jesus' question remains profoundly relevant. It challenges us to move beyond mere intellectual assent or popular cultural views of Jesus and to develop a personal, biblically informed conviction about who he is. Our understanding of the Incarnation and the true nature of Christ as both fully God and fully man is foundational to our faith and discipleship. This verse encourages us to continually reflect on our own answer to this ultimate question.

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Please note that only the commentary section is AI-generated — the main Scripture and cross-references are stored on the site and are from trusted and verified sources.

Cross-References

  • Luke 9:18 (10 votes)

    ¶ And it came to pass, as he was alone praying, his disciples were with him: and he asked them, saying, Whom say the people that I am?

  • Luke 9:20 (10 votes)

    He said unto them, But whom say ye that I am? Peter answering said, The Christ of God.

  • Matthew 16:13 (9 votes)

    ¶ When Jesus came into the coasts of Caesarea Philippi, he asked his disciples, saying, Whom do men say that I the Son of man am?

  • Matthew 16:20 (9 votes)

    Then charged he his disciples that they should tell no man that he was Jesus the Christ.